ActionAid welcomes the recent statement by ICC Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan on the applications for arrest warrants in relation to the conflicts in Israel and the State of Palestine and the widespread and systematic decades long attack against the Palestinian civilian population pursuant to Israeli State policy.

This action, based on substantial evidence of war crimes and crimes against humanity since October 7th, 2023, is a crucial step towards justice and accountability. We stand with the victims and survivors, urging the international community to support the ICC’s efforts to uphold international law and prevent impunity for these serious crimes.

We reiterate our call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the end of Israel’s illegal blockade on Gaza, and the safe return of civilian hostages and displaced persons. All parties must adhere to international law, prioritise the rights of women and girls, and ensure essential resources reach those in need. These are the first steps of accountability for the ongoing and grave breaches of international humanitarian laws, but there is still so much more to do. There continue to be severe breaches of international humanitarian law across the West Bank, and we urge the international community to begin the process of accountability and justice for the millions of Palestinians living under this illegal and brutal occupation.

In the face of alleged sexual violence reported since October 7th in Palestine and Israel, ActionAid stands firm: every report demands a thorough investigation. These acts are gross violations of human rights and constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity under international law. International mechanisms like the ICC must prosecute these alleged crimes.

We reiterate our call that Israel must immediately comply with the ICJ’s provisional measures, including ensuring full, unimpeded access to aid and humanitarian support to Gaza which is facing one of the worst humanitarian crises seen in recent history.

We need an immediate and permanent ceasefire now.